French onion soup is a beloved classic that brings together rich, savory flavors, melted cheese, and caramelized onions in a hearty broth. But if you’re wondering what pairs well with French onion soup to create a complete meal, you’re in the right place! Whether you’re planning a dinner party or a cozy night in, finding the perfect sides and accompaniments will elevate your dining experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of sides, proteins, vegetables, and even desserts that pair well with French onion soup. We’ll also dive into wine and drink pairings, as well as how to create a full French-inspired menu.
Why Pairings Matter for French Onion Soup
French onion soup is known for its deep, rich flavor, thanks to the caramelized onions and savory broth. However, its hearty nature means it benefits from lighter, fresher sides that bring balance to the meal.
Balance and Contrast
Pairing foods with different textures and flavors can enhance the overall dining experience. For example, a fresh salad with a bright vinaigrette can contrast the richness of the soup, while crispy bread can add texture to every spoonful. The key is to choose sides and accompaniments that complement, not compete with, the flavors of the soup.
Adding Variety
In addition to balance, sides that add variety—whether in flavor, texture, or temperature—will create a more complete meal. Pairing French onion soup with something light or crunchy will break up the soup’s richness, making each bite more enjoyable.
Best Bread and Carb That Pairs for French Onion Soup
Bread is a classic accompaniment to French onion soup and often acts as a vessel for soaking up the delicious broth. Let’s look at some of the best bread and carb options that pair well with this iconic dish.
Crusty Baguette
A traditional French baguette is a must when it comes to French onion soup. The crusty exterior and soft interior are perfect for dipping, and you can toast slices with melted Gruyère to echo the cheese in the soup.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread adds a savory, buttery note that contrasts with the soup’s sweetness. Plus, the crisp texture of the bread offers a nice crunch alongside the smooth broth.
Cheesy Crostini
Another great option is cheesy crostini—small slices of toasted bread topped with cheese. The cheese melts beautifully over the top, mimicking the melted Gruyère in the soup itself.
Buttery Dinner Rolls
For something softer, buttery dinner rolls are an excellent choice. Their pillowy texture is ideal for absorbing the broth without becoming too soggy.
Herbed French Bread
If you want to add a bit of flavor, try serving herbed French bread. Rosemary or thyme-infused bread complements the flavors of French onion soup and adds an aromatic touch.
Salads That Pairs Well with French Onion Soup
To balance the richness of French onion soup, a light and refreshing salad can work wonders. Here are a few salad ideas that pair well with the soup.
Frisée Salad with Lardons and Poached Egg
A French-inspired frisée salad with crispy lardons (bacon) and a poached egg is an excellent pairing. The slightly bitter greens and rich, runny yolk provide a satisfying contrast to the hearty soup.
Pear and Walnut Salad with Vinaigrette
A salad featuring pears, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette offers sweetness and crunch, which beautifully balances the savory notes of French onion soup. The acidity in the vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while the pears add a refreshing sweetness.
Simple Mixed Greens with Light Vinaigrette
For a minimalist option, a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette works well. It’s fresh, crisp, and doesn’t overpower the soup.
Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese
A spinach salad with creamy goat cheese and candied pecans can bring creamy, tangy, and sweet elements to your meal. The goat cheese pairs well with the savory soup, adding a unique layer of flavor.
Apple and Fennel Salad Pairs Well With French Onion Soup
If you’re looking for something crisp and refreshing, an apple and fennel salad offers a perfect contrast to the heavy broth. The sweetness of the apple and the licorice-like flavor of fennel lighten up the meal.
Proteins That Pairs Well with French Onion Soup
If you want to turn your French onion soup into a full meal, adding a protein can make it more satisfying. Here are some proteins that pair well with French onion soup.
Grilled Chicken or Steak
Grilled chicken is a lean, simple protein that complements the rich flavors of the soup. A well-seasoned steak also works wonderfully, adding a hearty element without overshadowing the soup.
Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops, especially when seasoned with herbs like rosemary or thyme, pair well with the deep flavors of French onion soup. The slight sweetness of pork enhances the caramelized onions.
Scallops or Shrimp
For a lighter protein option, seared scallops or shrimp are excellent choices. Their delicate flavors provide a nice contrast to the richness of the soup without being too heavy.
Duck Breast
For a more indulgent pairing, try duck breast. The richness of duck enhances the flavors of French onion soup, and the crispy skin adds a delightful texture.
Roast Beef or Beef Tenderloin
If you’re looking for something classic, roast beef or beef tenderloin is a natural match. The savory flavors of the beef mirror the broth, creating a seamless pairing.
Vegetable Sides That Pairs Well with French Onion Soup
Vegetable sides bring freshness and color to your meal. Here are some of the best vegetable sides that pair well with French onion soup.
Roasted Vegetables Pairs Well With French Onion Soup
Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or squash can add a sweet and savory element to your meal. The caramelization on the vegetables complements the sweetness of the onions in the soup.
Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds
Green beans sautéed with almonds offer a crisp texture and nutty flavor that pairs well with the soup. The light, simple preparation keeps the focus on the French onion soup while adding a touch of crunch.
Creamed Spinach Pairs Well With French Onion Soup
For a richer side, creamed spinach works well with French onion soup. The creamy texture complements the cheesy top layer of the soup and brings another layer of indulgence to the meal.
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon
If you prefer a lighter option, grilled asparagus with a squeeze of lemon adds brightness and a touch of acidity to balance out the soup’s richness.
Buttered Zucchini and Squash
Buttered zucchini and squash are simple yet flavorful vegetables that offer a mild contrast to the strong flavors of French onion soup.
Cheese Pairings to Enhance French Onion Soup
Cheese is integral to French onion soup, but adding more cheese options on the side can elevate your meal even further. Here are some cheese options that pair well with the soup.
Gruyère
Gruyère is the traditional cheese used in French onion soup, thanks to its nutty, slightly sweet flavor and excellent melting properties.
Comté Pairs Well With French Onion Soup
If you want something a bit stronger, Comté is a fantastic alternative to Gruyère. It has a similar nuttiness but with a more pronounced, earthy flavor.
Parmesan or Pecorino
Parmesan and Pecorino are salty, sharp cheeses that pair well with the savory soup. You can grate them over your soup for extra flavor or serve them alongside the meal.
Brie or Camembert
For something creamier, Brie or Camembert adds a luscious, velvety texture to your meal. These cheeses work well with the broth and onions, creating a luxurious dining experience.
Blue Cheese Crumbles
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, blue cheese crumbles bring a tangy, sharp contrast to the rich, sweet onions in the soup.
Wine and Drink Pairs Well With French Onion Soup
Pairing your soup with the right drink can make a big difference. Whether you’re looking for wine, beer, or non-alcoholic options, here are some suggestions that pair well with French onion soup.
Dry White Wines (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc)
A crisp, dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc offers a refreshing contrast to the rich broth and cheese. The acidity of the wine cuts through the soup’s richness, creating a balanced bite.
Light Reds (Pinot Noir, Beaujolais)
For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir or Beaujolais works well. These wines have enough acidity to balance the savory flavors without overpowering them.
Sparkling Wine or Champagne
If you’re looking for something festive, sparkling wine or Champagne can add a touch of elegance. The bubbles and acidity refresh your palate between bites.
Dark Beers or Ales
For beer lovers, a dark ale or stout complements the deep, caramelized flavors in the soup. The malty notes in the beer enhance the broth’s richness.
Herbal Teas or Sparkling Water
If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, herbal teas like chamomile or a simple sparkling water with a splash of lemon can refresh the palate between bites.
Hearty Sides to Make French Onion Soup a Full Meal
Sometimes, you want to make French onion soup the centerpiece of a meal. Adding hearty sides can turn this classic soup into a satisfying dinner.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect side to add heartiness to your meal. They also provide a mild, comforting contrast to the intense flavors of the soup.
Risotto
A luxurious risotto, especially one made with a light cream sauce, pairs well with French onion soup. The creaminess of the risotto complements the cheesy, savory broth.
Herbed Polenta
Herbed polenta adds texture and depth to your meal. It’s soft, creamy, and perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
Pasta with Light Cream Sauce
If you’re a pasta lover, try serving a light pasta dish alongside the soup. The mild flavors won’t compete with the soup and will help create a more filling meal.
Baked Potatoes with Onion Sour Cream
Baked potatoes topped with onion sour cream echo the soup’s flavors and provide a starchy, satisfying side.
Desserts That Pairs with French Onion Soup
Ending your meal with the right dessert can make all the difference. Here are a few desserts that pair well with French onion soup.
Tarte Tatin
A classic French dessert, tarte tatin adds sweetness and flaky texture that contrasts beautifully with the savory soup.
Crème Brûlée Pairs Well With French Onion Soup
Rich and creamy, crème brûlée is an indulgent dessert that pairs well with the savory notes of French onion soup.
Chocolate Mousse
Light and airy, chocolate mousse provides a delicate and sweet finish to your meal, balancing the heaviness of the soup.
Apple Galette Pairs Well With French Onion Soup
Apple galette, with its warm cinnamon flavors, offers a perfect balance of sweetness to end the meal on a lighter note.
Macarons or Madeleines
Small and light, macarons or madeleines are perfect bite-sized desserts that won’t overwhelm the meal but offer a touch of sweetness.
French-Themed Menus Featuring French Onion Soup
If you want to create a full French-themed menu, here’s how you can incorporate French onion soup into a cohesive meal.
Appetizers
- Charcuterie board: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and bread
- Cheese plate: Featuring French cheeses like Brie, Comté, and Gruyère
Main Course
- Coq au Vin: A classic French chicken dish braised in wine
- Duck Confit: Rich and flavorful duck legs cooked slowly in their own fat
- Boeuf Bourguignon: A slow-cooked beef stew with red wine and vegetables
Side Dishes
- Ratatouille: A vegetable medley that’s both fresh and flavorful
- Gratin Dauphinois: A creamy potato gratin that complements the richness of the soup
Desserts and Drinks
- Crème Brûlée or Tarte Tatin: For a sweet, French-inspired ending
- Wine Pairings: Light red wines like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, or a sparkling Champagne
FAQs
How do you deepen the flavor of French onion soup?
To deepen the flavor of French onion soup, caramelize the onions slowly to bring out their natural sweetness. You can also add a splash of red wine or cognac to the broth and use high-quality beef broth for a richer, more intense flavor.
What is the difference between onion soup and French onion soup?
The main difference is that French onion soup is made with caramelized onions and beef broth, which gives it a deeper, more savory flavor. It’s also traditionally topped with melted cheese and bread, whereas a standard onion soup may not have these additions.
Conclusion: What Pairs Well with French Onion Soup?
French onion soup is a rich and satisfying dish, but it becomes even better when paired with the right sides, proteins, and drinks. From crusty baguettes to fresh salads and grilled chicken, the possibilities are endless. Thoughtful pairings not only balance the soup’s flavors but also create a more complete and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, experiment with different pairings to find the perfect combination that suits your taste.